Time moved slowly forward by the minute. The nobles fell silent again. Veronica obtained a map from Sidney and marked several areas on it with stones and branches:
"December Plaza and the surrounding area are all filled with rioting civilians. Every street from the South Gate to the East Gate is blocked by them. When we passed through the southern part of Queen's District, we noticed a small number of guards standing against the advancing crowds. In short, none of these places are suitable for passage."
She gestured as she explained:
"Once we enter the Inner City, the Imperial Guard will be stationed there. Even if the Patrol Cavalry and city guards have run into trouble, these troops directly subordinate to the imperial family will still perform their duty faithfully. A small number of priests from the Flame Dependent Knight Order's temple are also stationed there. Even if high-level forces infiltrate the area, it would be impossible to break down their combat strength in a short time."
She turned to Brando and asked, "How confident are you?"
Brando shook his head and answered honestly, "Not even ten percent."
The night wind swept across the hills and through the woods, making the corners of the map rustle. The stones and branches weighing it down scattered across the ground, and everyone present felt the deep chill of the endless night.
Veronica paid no attention to the map. It was meaningless anyway. She looked at the young man from Eluin without taking offense, as if the answer to that question should naturally have been this.
The female Legion Commander said gently, "Then at the very least, we must avoid the rioting civilians. They might become an advantage for you."
"I'm afraid that will be difficult," Baron Hometz said from the side. He was